Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
As sensual and exotic as the hibiscus flower that bears its name, Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious jewel set on a coral reef island just off the coast of Borneo. A secluded island hideaway of 48 timbered villas, the resort is tucked away on a tranquil and hidden bay framed by crescent shaped white sand beach on one side and the centuries old virgin jungle on the other. Each private villa is rough hewn and hand-crafted by local tradesmen, terraced into the hillside reflecting the traditional simplicity of the Borneo architectural style, blending seamlessly with the comforts and needs of the most sophisticated and discerning luxury traveller.
Staying true to the resort's theme, each of Bunga Raya's 48 private villas is named after one of the many species of hibiscus flowers that can be seen about the grounds. Every villa is built from the ground up by tradesmen from a variety of natural materials. The distinctive lines and aesthetics of traditional Bornean architecture are evoked and melded with the high standards of contemporary functionality and comfort expected in luxury resorts. The beauty of Bornean simplicity meets the sophistication of modern necessities, and the result is an assortment of dwellings that offer stunning views of the gleaming beachfront, the South China Sea, and the lushly vegetated landscape.
The villas range from humble iron wood timbered houses set just steps away from the beach, to tremendous three bedroom affairs that feature extended wrap around balconies and private plunge pools.
Staying true to the resort's theme, each of Bunga Raya's 48 private villas is named after one of the many species of hibiscus flowers that can be seen about the grounds. Every villa is built from the ground up by tradesmen from a variety of natural materials. The distinctive lines and aesthetics of traditional Bornean architecture are evoked and melded with the high standards of contemporary functionality and comfort expected in luxury resorts. The beauty of Bornean simplicity meets the sophistication of modern necessities, and the result is an assortment of dwellings that offer stunning views of the gleaming beachfront, the South China Sea, and the lushly vegetated landscape.
The villas range from humble iron wood timbered houses set just steps away from the beach, to tremendous three bedroom affairs that feature extended wrap around balconies and private plunge pools.
Dotting the hillside scaling up towards the centre of the island, these spacious one bedroom villas present an appealing mix of quiet privacy and either views of lush tropical jungle or the ocean. Every Superior Villa is built with the same standards, but each offers a different and unique vantage point of the resort's many alluring sights.
Gaze at serene scenes of the beach and sea from the edge of your very own private plunge pool and open deck balcony. Complete with deck chairs for lounging and an indulgent bathtub for freshening up in a spacious bathroom.
The Deluxe Villa provide views of both the jungle and the ocean, and are ideal for small families or groups of friends owing to the extra space. A separate living room extension is equipped with a second entertainment system, making for a simple way to simulate the leisurely pleasures of home. The extension may also function as a second bedroom with the optional addition of a bed.
Designed for guests interested in a little more than the usual dose of privacy, the Treehouse Villa is perfect for honeymooners and couples. A jungle walkway leads your ascent to your own romantic haven, partially hidden by trees. An outdoor jacuzzi, or a private jungle plunge pool and a lounge, truly set the tone for an intimate experience high up in the tree tops.
The perfect available option for families, this suite is surrounded by thriving jungle and amazing ocean views. The suite is equipped with a king and twin-sized bedroom and a large, luxuriously relaxing balcony furnished fully as an outdoor living space.
Found on the highest point of the resort, the suite offers an incredible view of the ocean. This massive two-storey hilltop villa features a spacious master bedroom with its own giant whirlpool bath, matching downstairs bedrooms, a wrap around deck and a private plunge pool.
A two bedroom villa (630 sq. meters) in a sublime location of absolute privacy, backed by tropical jungle on one side and The South China Sea on the other. A solid elegant building made of tropical hardwood in a traditional fashion. A designated butler, chef and housekeeper will be at your service around the clock. The villa has several classy dining areas as well as comfortable living rooms and a designer kitchen. An enlarged outdoor deck complete with 2 private plunge pool, a BBQ pit and your own private beach. These define the living style of Bunga Raya's prime lodging, the Royal Villa.
Whether it's the healthful benefits of fresh produce and ingredients or the simple, down-home comfort of familiar food you desire, rest assured that our kitchens are always prepared and equipped to meet your dining expectations. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner at one of our great restaurants, or indulge in a fine meal in the comfort of your own villa.
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Pantai Grill
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Set right in the sand very close to the water's edge, Pantai Grill is a laidback oceanfront dining outlet. Your choice of meats and seafood are grilled as you order. There is, of course, always the option to order other dishes and drinks from our other outlets as well. Pantai Grill is available for lunch and is open until sunset. Couples interested in more private dining arrangements can choose to enjoy their food at one of the several over-water pavilions located nearby, which create a romantic atmosphere that makes for a more intimate affair. |
Wine Cave
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Our Wine Cave is literally an underground wine cellar that stores over 4,500 bottles. Built right under The Koi, it also houses an impressive collection of cigars, which can be enjoyed at an adjoining outdoor patio. A special lounge and furnished table settings also make it a prime and deliciously stylish venue for private events. |
The Koi
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A modern European Bistro designed with plenty of contemporary flair, The Koi is housed at the resort's heart and serves as its main dining outlet. The restaurant takes its name from the dozens of scintillating exotic fish that inhabit the pond just behind the establishment. The resort's swimming pool is located in front of The Koi, and you're welcome to order snacks and chilled beverages to enjoy as you indulge in a refreshing dip. The Koi is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. |
Have a fun yet tranquil day at Bunga Raya. Kayak through emerald waters. Explore awe-inspiring mangroves. Catch a sight of Hornbills perched on century old trees. Trek through thick jungles bursting with butterflies, birds, cicadas, and endless flora. Dive into ocean treasures or sunbathe afloat its waters as you smile at happy seahorses, and gigantic clams. Whatever you choose, allow us to keep you entertained.
| Room type | Description |
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Dive Centre
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Home to sea turtles, clown fish, giant groupers, coral fish, trigger fish, whale sharks, and many more colorful species, it’s no wonder that the reefs of Borneo continually attracts divers from all continents. Our PADI Certified Dive Centre is fully equipped to address the needs of the beginner rank right up through the experienced diver. |
Water Sports
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Explore the island waters and discover nature with a little adventure through our water sports activities. Take the Hobie Getaway out for a wonderful afternoon sailing. Explore the coral reefs on a Kayak or snorkel for a closer encounter with the underwater world. Many of these sports are included at no additional cost without packages, so make sure to check and pick out the range of water sports you’d like to try. |
Jungle Trekking
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Simply being at Bunga Raya brings the more metropolitan among us as close to nature as it can get, but perhaps you'd like to delve in even further and have a closer look at the island's plant and animal inhabitants. Treks through our jungles are easy to organise and can be accommodated by informing resort staff in advance. One of our experienced local guides will accompany you to point out the jungle's hidden marvels. Bask in the breathtaking majesty of virtually untouched jungle, which contains 40% of Malaysia's flora and fauna. |
Fitness Center
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The Gymnasium at Bunga Raya Island Resort & Spa is a uniquely designed timber structure that stands among shady Sea hibiscus trees, separated from the main Bunga Raya building by a few minutes’ walk. Equipped with new, trendy Life Fitness equipment, guests run, stride, cycle, exert strength and lift weights in a space encircled by wide glass windows. The views you enjoy while exercising are nothing short of incredible sights of a life portrait of The South China Sea, backed by the sky’s ever changing palette of blue and white hues. |
Solace Spa
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A brief trip over a suspended bridge takes you to Solace Spa, our own trademark beauty and body centre. The spa adopts the familiar Bornean style of architecture and decor that is found throughout the resort, and literally takes it to the next level. Treatment rooms and private spa pavilions are built directly into the landscape, creating an inviting terraced effect that entwines the spa into the island's jungle and massive boulders. The structure quietly mirrors the spa's own objectives: to elevate the humble act of a therapeutic treatment into an art form that gently carries you into a state of total bliss. |
Your journey through many years of love and commitment will only be more beautiful when it begins right here on our island home. Let our team of specialists take care of the little details as you smoothly savour the most important day of your life.
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Based on 719 reviews
4
Location
4.7
Sleep Quality
4.5
Rooms
4.5
Service
4.4
Value
3.7
Cleanliness
4.3
Published Tue, Dec 31, 2025
We really enjoyed our stay at this resort. While it is billed as a 5 star resort, by Australian standards it would be a 4 star resort. The accomodation is really special - spacious timber villas...
